Apple Looper
Common NameApple Looper
Scientific NameChloroclystis rectangulata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsapple, pear, hawthorn, plum, cherry, blackthorn
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as loopers, feed on the flowers and developing fruits of various fruit trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, and adults emerge in early summer.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the characteristic mottled grey-brown cryptic pattern, and the distinct dark central band on the forewings. It is often found in areas with its host plants, such as apple orchards.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey and brown wings, often featuring darker transverse bands across the forewings. Its resting posture is typically with wings held flat, forming a somewhat triangular shape.
